YORK, PA.- They shared the same birth year, became lifelong friends and lived happily ever after  that was the story of celebrated Where The Wild Things Are author/illustrator Maurice Sendak and cartoon icon Mickey Mouse. Both made their debuts in 1928. And almost as though they shared the same DNA, Sendak and his comical kindred spirit went on to entertain multiple generations of children.

In a book that accompanied the 2005 Jewish Museum of New York art exhibition titled Wild Things: The Art of Maurice Sendak, the author is quoted as saying that Mickey Mouse was a source of joy and pleasure while growing up.

In later years, Sendak would create an inspiring work and leisure environment for himself that was filled with early Disney toys. Many of his most treasured pieces were acquired over a 40-year period from Hakes auctions and through private purchases organized by the companys founder, Ted Hake. An intuitive buyer, Sendak followed the golden rule of collecting: buy what you like  and Sendak liked Mickey Mouse toys.

Because of the long personal friendship and bond of trust that developed between Sendak and Hake, the authors estate entrusted Hakes with auctioning his prized toy collection. So far, two successive Hakes auctions have featured Disney rarities with Sendak provenance. The third will take place July 15-17, and it includes two of the most elusive and desirable Mickey Mouse toys ever made.

Lot 1737, a 9-inch wind-up of a five-fingered Mickey, was made for the British market around 1930 by the German manufacturer Saalheimer & Strauss. When its built-in key is wound, the toy waddles side to side and the characters mouth widens to flash a toothy smile. One of very few known examples, its auction estimate is $20,000-$35,000.

A similar price is expected for Lot 1738, a Mickey Mouse Double Slate Dancers crank toy made by Wilhelm Krauss. The German-made toy depicts a pair of smiling five-fingered Mickeys with loosely riveted arms and legs that render the illusion of dancing when the toy is activated.

Only two Double Slate Dancers are known to exist, and this marks the first time in our 47 years that Hakes has ever been able to offer this fabulous toy in one of our auctions, said Ted Hake.

Hakes Auction #212 is now open for bidding by phone, mail or online at www.hakes.com, where the fully illustrated catalog can be viewed. To request a free printed catalog or for information on any item in the sale, call toll-free: (866) 404-9800 or (717) 434-1600. Email: hakes@hakes.com.